As a precautionary measure, the government of the United Kingdom raised its national security threat level for Northern Ireland from substantial to severe on Tuesday, March 28. A threat level of severe means that an attack is highly likely.
According to the UK government, the threat level change is based on the latest intelligence and analysis of factors that drive the threat. It considers a range of factors including the two terrorist incidents in Northern Ireland directed at the Police Service of Northern Ireland over the past four months. This decision reverses the UK Government’s downgrade in Northern Ireland's terror threat level in February 2022 from severe to substantial - the first change in 12 years at the time. More information about U.K. threat levels is available on the MI5 website. Secretary of State for Northern Ireland Chris Heaton-Harris said, “The public should remain vigilant, but not be alarmed, and continue to report any concerns they have to the Police Service of Northern Ireland.” The State Department’s travel advisory level for the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland remains at “Level Two: Exercise increased caution” due to the presence of terrorist groups that continue to plot possible attacks in the country. We encourage travelers to review the information on the country information page for additional information.
Enroll in Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security and health updates. Actions to Take
Stay alert in public places, including schools, hospitals, churches, tourist locations, and transportation hubs.
Review travel routes and times to reduce time and place predictability.
Keep a low profile.
Be aware of your surroundings including local events.
Review your personal security plans.
Report social media threats and suspicious activity to local authorities.
Monitor local news stations for updates.
Assistance U.S. Consulate General Belfast +44 (0) 28 9038-6100 ConsularBelfast@state.gov U.S. Embassy London, United Kingdom +44 (0) 207-499-9000 SCSLondon@state.gov U.S. Consulate General Edinburgh +44 (0) 131 556-8315 Edinburgh-info@state.gov State Department – Consular Affairs 888-407-4747 or 202-501-4444 United Kingdom Country Information